Display and control system for gaming

ABSTRACT

A display device, for use with a gaming apparatus, having a display face, a movable indicator located on the display face and a movement apparatus including an actuator system for providing multi-dimensional movement to the movable indicator via a slidable bracket, is disclosed. Typically, the actuator system generates movement of the movable indicator (ultimately associated with game play outcomes) along a pathway on the display face via a motor coupled to a spring-loaded tube sleeve connected to the slidable bracket. The display device is capable of providing movement of the movable indicator on the display face in a variety of arrangements, for example, in the form of zigzag, curve, spiral, or loop courses as well as tracking over a non-planar surface, such as hilly terrain.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/944,076, filed on Sep. 15, 2004; and also claims priority of U.S. provisional patent application No. 60/503,308, filed on Sep. 15, 2003. All of the above referenced applications are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to actuators for gaming devices, particularly actuators that provide physical movement of game display components in a multi-dimensional fashion, and more specifically, to actuators involving slidable bracket assemblies.

The spread and growth of the gaming industry has been marked by a generally corresponding growth in competition among the gambling establishments. To distinguish one another during the scramble to attract new gaming players while retaining the loyalty of established players, the gaming establishments have created a demand for gaming devices that provide greater stimulating and exciting play compared to prior gaming devices. To meet this need, the purveyors of such gaming devices have put forth gaming devices that can be associated with display devices, which are capable of multiple level sensory stimulation. This multiple sensory stimulation has been found to be particularly effective at both attracting new customers and retaining the loyalty of established players.

Generally, to provide this multiple level sensory stimulation, a display device may utilize at least one communication device (for example, a movable indicator which moves along a pathway; a display which features some motion not otherwise involving a movement along a pathway; and related devices). The display device may use at least one movement apparatus to impart some form of motion, movement or similar aspect to at least one communication device associated with the display device. The movement apparatus may comprise at least one actuator or a set of actuators acting in concert (for example, a drive mechanism), which actually provide the movement or motion. The actuator may comprise at least one propulsion device (for example, a motor) and at least one mechanical device, which converts the movement of the propulsion device into a movement, which may be used to propel or otherwise put a communication device into motion in some fashion. A control system (such as a controller, for example) may used in conjunction with the actuator(s) to govern the activity of the actuator(s) and hence the activity of the communication device(s) as it relates to the activities of any device or implement (such as the gaming device, for example), which is in some form of communication or association with at least one display device.

It appears, therefore, that as demand generally grows in the gaming industry for new types of gaming devices having display devices utilizing motion or movement, there is a corresponding need to provide new types of movement apparatuses (such as actuators, drive mechanisms and related devices), which may provide and otherwise impart new and exciting movement, motion and similar aspects to those communication devices, which may be used in display devices that may be associated with gaming devices.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment of the present invention, a gaming device is provided that includes (a) at least one gaming apparatus configured to allow at least one player to place a wager and play at least one game, and (b) at least one display device in communication with the gaming apparatus, where the display device includes at least one display face, at least one movable indicator, and at least one movement apparatus. The movement apparatus includes at least one actuator system having a slidable bracket assembly, and the movement apparatus is configured to provide multi-dimensional movement to the movable indicator in relation to the display face. Alternatively, a plurality of actuator systems may be employed, acting in concert to provide movement to at least one movable indicator.

The actuator system may further include (a) the slidable bracket assembly having a tube sleeve, a bracket slidably coupled at a first end to the tube sleeve and further coupled at a second end to the movable indicator, and a spring mechanism mounted within the tube sleeve that is configured to provide slidable movement to the bracket; and (b) at least one propulsion device coupled to the slidable bracket assembly. The propulsion devices may be selected from the group consisting of motors, pulleys, a rack and pinion and moving belts. Optionally, the gaming device may further include a control system that governs at least part of the operation of the movement apparatus.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a display device having at least one display face, a movable indicator, a display (for communicating game-related information) associated with the display face, and at least one movement apparatus as described above.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a gaming device actuator system is provided having (a) a bracket connected at a first end to a movable indicator, the bracket further slidably coupled at a second end to a tube sleeve, with the tube sleeve also being coupled to a shaft; (b) a spring mechanism configured to provide slidable movement to the bracket and mounted within the tube sleeve; and (c) at least one propulsion device coupled to the shaft, where the shaft is configured to transfer rotational motion provided by the propulsion device. Typically, the shaft will take the form of a drive shaft or that of a threaded shaft in order to transfer motion to the slidable bracket; the shaft may be connected to the tube sleeve of the actuator system via a nut. Optionally, the actuator system may further include a control system to detect the position of the movable indicator (in relation to its progress along the pathway on the display face) and govern at least part of the operation of the propulsion device.

The various embodiments of the present invention may, but do not necessarily, achieve one or more of the following advantages:

-   -   the ability to provide visual content that excites and         stimulates player during operation of the gaming device;     -   the ability to indicate game outcomes, such as prizes, with         movable indicators;     -   the ability to provide an entertaining movable indicator;     -   the ability to move an indicator while meeting various movement         and structural requirements;     -   the ability to foster anticipation to encourage continued         playing of the gaming device;     -   the ability to communicate with the player(s) on various         operational aspects of the gaming device;     -   the ability to provide a level of interest to the player that         increases the player retention and brand loyalty;     -   the ability to provide the player with a clear concise         transmission of gaming information regarding the operations of         the gaming device;     -   the ability to attract new players to gaming by providing         sensory stimulating communications and easy-to-comprehend         information regarding the operations of the gaming device; and     -   to provide for the potential of increased profitability in the         operation of gaming devices featuring movable actuators.

These and other advantages may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification, claims and abstract.

The above description sets forth, rather broadly, a summary of at least one embodiment of the present invention so that the detailed description that follows may be better understood and contributions of the present invention to the art may be better appreciated. Some of the embodiments of the present invention may not include all of the features or characteristics listed in the above summary. It is understood that there are additional features of the invention that will be described below and will form the subject matter of claims. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and to the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or as illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is substantially a perspective frontal view of one embodiment of a gaming device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is substantially a side elevation cutaway view of one embodiment of a display device of the present invention.

FIG. 3A is substantially a side perspective view of one embodiment of a display device of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is substantially a side cross-section view of one embodiment of a movable indicator.

FIG. 3C is substantially a frontal cross-section view of one embodiment of a movable indicator.

FIG. 4 is substantially a side elevation cutaway view of one embodiment of a display device of the present invention.

FIG. 4A is substantially a side elevation cutaway view of one embodiment of a display device of the present invention

FIG. 5 is substantially a perspective frontal view of one embodiment of a display device of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is substantially a frontal elevation cutaway view of one embodiment of a display device of the present invention utilizing at least one drive mechanism.

FIG. 7 is substantially a frontal elevation cutaway view of one embodiment of a gaming display of the present invention utilizing at least one drive mechanism.

FIG. 8A is substantially a perspective frontal view of another embodiment of a display device of the present invention utilizing an irregular pathway for the movable indicator.

FIG. 8B is substantially a partial cross-section side view taken along line A of FIG. 8A showing a slidable bracket assembly associated with the movable indicator.

FIG. 9A is substantially a perspective frontal view of another embodiment of a display device of the present invention utilizing a non-planar surface for the pathway of the movable indicator.

FIG. 9B is substantially a partial cross-section side view taken along line B of FIG. 9A showing a slidable bracket assembly involved with movement of the movable indicator.

FIG. 9C is substantially a detailed side view of the slidable bracket assembly portion of FIG. 9B.

FIG. 10A is substantially a perspective frontal view of another embodiment of a display device of the present invention utilizing a non-linear pathway for the movable indicator.

FIG. 10 B is substantially a partial side view taken along line C of FIG. 10A showing a slidable bracket assembly involved with movement of the movable indicator.

FIG. 11 is substantially a flow chart for one possible embodiment for the operation of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this application. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, the invention, in at least one embodiment, will generally be in communication with a gaming device, generally denoted by reference numeral 4. The gaming device 4 may be a primary gaming device and/or a supplementary gaming device (bonus game) that may be used in the gaming or entertainment industries to allow a player(s) to generally play a game. Such gaming devices 4 may include, but are not limited to, the following: electronic video games, gambling machines, video poker machines, machines that may receive or payout a player's wager or bet, and any other gaming device that may exist in the future. In at least one embodiment of the invention, gaming device 4 may be one that could allow a player to place a wager or bet on a game or event. In at least one embodiment of the invention, the gaming device 4 (for example, a slot machine) could allow a player(s) to place a wager or gamble as well as play a game.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, one possible embodiment of the present invention may include at least one gaming apparatus 4 (for example, a slot machine) in communication with a display device 10. The display device 10 may be generally defined by at least one display face 12, which is in communication or otherwise associated with at least one communication device 6 (such as movable indicator 40 and display 14, for example). At least one communication device 6 may be associated with one movement apparatus, generally denoted by reference numeral 15. The movement apparatus 15 may impart some form of motion, movement or similar action to the communication device. The movement apparatus 15 may be comprised of at least one actuator 18 or a plurality of actuators 18 acting in concert (for example, a drive mechanism 17 as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7), which actually provides the movement or motion for the movement apparatus 15.

The actuator 18 can be comprised of at least one propulsion device 114 (such as a motor) and at least one mechanical device (such as a rack and pinion, a threaded shaft or similar device) that converts the movement of the propulsion device 114 into a movement that may be used to propel or put into motion in some fashion, the communication device 6. A control system (such as controller 140) may used in conjunction with the actuator(s) 18 to govern the activity of the actuator(s) 18 (and hence the activity of the communication device[s] 6) in relation to other activities of any device or implement (for example, gaming device 4), which is utilizing, incorporating or is otherwise in some form of communication with, at least one display device 10.

The display face 12 may generally be further defined by a front surface and a rear surface (or underneath portion). One or more of the surfaces may in part be defined by having at least one pathway defining at least a portion of the movement for at least one movable indicator 40. In at least one embodiment the pathway is an aperture, a slot 50, through which at least a portion of the movable indicator 40 passes. In this manner, the movable indicator 40 may be able to connect to the movement apparatus 15, which is being used to at least propel the movable indicator 40 along at least a portion of the slot 50. Typically the pathway is located proximate to display face 12 and involves a slot opening (such as slot 50) in the display face.

The display face 12 may be generally further defined by at least a second communication device 6 (such as a display 14), which is positioned relative to at least one stop position 16. The number of display faces 12, movable indicators 40, displays 14, stop positions 16, slots 50, actuators 18, and controllers 140 that may be employed by the invention generally depends on the particular design needs and operation protocols for a particular application.

In one embodiment, the travel pathway may be defined by at least one aperture, a slot 50, through which at least a portion of at least one movable indicator 40 can movably pass through the display face 12 to communicate with at least one actuator 18. The slot 50 may be linearly shaped and placed in a generally vertical orientation upon the display face 12.

Movable indicator 40 may comprise at least an indicator display 42 which is attached to one end of a bracket 45 that has a nut 46 (or other threaded device) affixed to its other end. A portion of the bracket 45 passes through the slot 50 to the underside of the display face 12 to generally connect the nut 46, and hence the movable indicator 40, to at least one actuator 18, which is located generally underneath or behind the gaming display face 12.

The display device 10 may be activated, triggered or otherwise controlled by at least one gaming device 4 (either a primary or a supplementary gaming device or both) to substantially communicate or otherwise generally disseminate various information. In at least one embodiment, such information could relate to gaming activities, for example: the awarding of prizes, the termination of an immediate and/or bonus game event, or other gaming action on the occurrence of a pre-defined event(s) occurring in a game.

When the gaming apparatus 4 substantially informs the player, through the display device 10, that a gaming-activated or gaming-based event has occurred, a movement apparatus 15 may be activated, so as to generally impart motion, movement or similar action to at least one communication device 6. The communication device may be a movable indicator 40 which moves relative to a pathway such as the slot 50.

In at least embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the display device 10 has at least one communication device 6, a movable indicator 40, which is shaped in the representation of a helicopter (in either two or three dimensional form). Upon the occurrences of predetermined events, at least one actuator 18 will substantially propel the movable indicator along at least a portion of the generally vertically orientated length of the slot 50. In another embodiment, the gaming apparatus 4, the display device 10 or both, can be programmed to have the movable indicator 40, when in motion, eventually stop at at least one position stop(s) 16, of a set of position stops 16 located in relative proximity to the slot 50.

In the present embodiment, each position stop 16 could have at least one corresponding display 14 to form at least one position stop 16/display 14 set. Several of these sets could be divided into multiple groups, with each group being assigned to generally communicate a specific category of information. In at least one version, all the position stop 16/display 14 sets of the display face 12 are assigned to generally communicate a specific category of information. In at least one version, the displays 14 may further bear some indicia, design or similar marking to communicate a specific category of information upon its selection or activation (for example, gaming information such as to present a winning outcome as a result of a player playing a game on the gaming apparatus).

In one embodiment, one group of stop position 16/display 14 sets may be associated with award notification information (for example, the displays 20 may have indicia of dollars signs to indicate a winning wager). A second group of stop position 16/display 14 sets may be associated with game-terminating notification information (for example, displays 22 may be shaped like a blimp display 34, power line display 32 or cloud display 30). Displays 22 may communicate that the immediate game has ended or terminated through the symbolism of a crash or other grounding of the helicopter as represented when movable indicator 40 shaped like a helicopter is aligned, for example, with cloud display 30.

Various embodiments of the invention could have the communication devices (such as movable indicators 40 and displays 14, for example) utilize a wide variety of communication methodologies. These methodologies could incorporate any appropriate means such as, but not be limited to, visual means (including but not limited to lighting effects, darkening effects, color differentiation, indicia, graphics, three-dimensional depictions and similar displays); and/or auditory means and/or tactile means (such as vibration and changes in surface texture, for example) as limited only by the imagination of the game designers and needs or criteria of the gaming apparatus 4. For example, the communication devices 6 may incorporate LED (light-emitting-diode) meters, CRT (cathode-ray-tube) screens, LCD (liquid-crystal-display) screens and similar devices. In one embodiment, the communication device (movable indicator) may involve a variable display design, such as changing images using an LED meter. The communication devices could incorporate one or more such methodologies simultaneously to communicate information on several levels.

Single Actuators

As shown in FIG. 2, one possible embodiment of the actuator 18, which may be located beneath the display face 12, could be a threaded shaft actuator 110. The threaded shaft actuator 110 may employ a propulsion device 114 (for example, an electric motor), a threaded shaft 112, a two-ended bracket 45, which is attached at one end to the movable indicator 40 and attached at the other end to a nut 46 (or other threaded device). The propulsion device 114, which may be governed by at least one controller 140, generally rotates the threaded shaft 112 about its longitudinal axis. The threads of the threaded shaft 112 substantially movably engage the threads of the nut 46 attached to the bracket 45. As a result, as the threaded shaft generally rotates, the nut 46, bracket 45 and the movable indicator 40 attached the bracket 45 can be propelled along at least a portion of the length of the threaded shaft 112. This single actuator's 110 action generally provides two dimensional movement of the communication means 6 along an x and y axis.

To provide three dimensional movement of the communication device 6 along an x, y and z axis, another embodiment of the invention uses a threaded shaft actuator 110, as generally discussed above, with the exception that the threaded shaft 112 is substantially flexible. FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C substantially show one embodiment of a display device 10 and communication device 6 (for example, a movable indicator 40), which uses a flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120. The flexibility of the flexible threaded shaft 130 not only allows the pathway (such as slot 50) of the communication device 6 (such as movable indicator 40) to essentially incorporate a wide variety and degrees of geometric intricacy, but generally allows a gaming display face 12 to have three-dimensional features and to have at least one communication device (movable indicator) pathway, which can follow at least a portion of one or more of those three-dimensional features. In this manner, an movable indicator 40, for example, in a shape representing a skier, motorcyclist or similar figure, could be propelled through, along or onto three-dimensional features of the gaming display face 12, such as projections (for example, three-dimensional depictions of mountains) and/or depressions (for example, three dimensional representations of valleys) and similar surface features.

Flexibility of the flexible threaded shaft 130 can be provided by using a variety of means known in the art or that will become known to the art in the future. One such means that could be employed is to substantially have the flexible threaded shaft 130 made from flexible material such as an elastomer.

Another possible means of providing flexibility is to substantially have the flexible threaded shaft 130 be constructed from multiple flexible components. In this manner, the flexible threaded shaft 130 could have a flexible core 132 (such as made from a cable, wire, spring or similar item, for example) around which a flexible thread 134 (an additional cable or wire, for example) is spirally wrapped (FIG. 3B). In this fashion, the flexible thread 134 could provide a threaded surface (such as spiral groves), which can rotatably engage the threads of the nut 46 (or other suitably threaded device) that is attached to the bracket 45. In this manner the rotation of the flexible threaded shaft 130 can then generally move the bracket 45 and the movable indicator 40 (which is generally attached to the bracket 45) along the pathway.

In construction of the flexible threaded shaft 130, it should be noted that when the flexible threaded shaft 130 is bent, the threads of the flexible thread shaft 130 could move closer together on the inside of the bent flexible threaded shaft 130 and spread further apart on the other side of the affected shaft area. Using knowledge known to those skilled in the art, the design of the threads (height, pitch and TPI [turns-per-inch] count, for example) of the flexible thread shaft 130 and the nut 46 (and other dimensions of the invention) should include those tolerances which could allow for the non-binding of flexible threaded shaft 130 when rotating within the threads of the nut 46 (or other suitable threaded device) during operation of the invention.

In order to possibly further facilitate the movement of the communication device 6 (such as movable indictor 40) by a flexible threaded shaft 130, the flexible threaded shaft 130 could set in a open channel 135 (FIG. 3C), which could be comprised of enclosed sides 136, an enclosed bottom 137, an open top 138 and at least one open end (not shown). The open channel 135 could be located below the display face 12 so that the open top 138 forms the slot 50. The open end (not shown) could allow at least one end of the flexible threaded shaft 130 to connect at one end to a propulsion device 114 (such as a motor), which is used generally to axially rotate the flexible threaded shaft 130. The open channel 135 should be of sufficient width and depth to substantially freely accommodate the nut 46 and nut end of the bracket 45 of the movable indicator 40; to substantially prevent the rotation of the bracket 45 when the flexible threaded shaft 130 rotates; to allow the free and unbinding rotation of the flexible threaded shaft 130 during the propulsion of the movable indicator 40; and to generally hold the flexible threaded shaft 130 within the confines of the open channel 135.

One possible embodiment of the flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120 is substantially depicted in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, wherein at least one flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120 generally propels at least one motorcycle-shaped movable indicator 40 along a pathway (for example, slot 50, open top 138), which could have one or more curves, spirals, loops and similar configurations, generally laid over one or more three-dimensional contours (for example, projections, depressions and similar surfaces) on the display face 12. Such contours in at least one version could represent hilly landscapes.

Due to the compact and flexible nature of this flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120 embodiment, it could be foreseeable that multiple flexible threaded shaft-based actuators 120 could be combined on a single display device 10. In at least one version, it could be possible that the pathways for the multiple flexible threaded shaft-based actuators 120 could possibly have a substantially parallel (or non-parallel) orientation (for example, such as to generally emulate a motorcycle race).

In addition to the physical connection means between movable indicator 40 and actuator 18 as described above, other embodiments of the invention could provide for the movement of a movable indicator 40 that is not in direct physical communication with the actuator 18. These embodiments would utilize magnetic attraction whereby a magnet (not shown) located in the communication device 6 located above the display face 12 would be attracted to a corresponding secondary magnet (not shown) attached to the actuator 18 located below the display face 12. Thus, the magnetic attraction could force the communication device to follow on the top of the display face 12 the pathway below the display face 12 as taken by the moving part of the actuator containing the secondary magnet. This movement would be very similar in manner and operation of music boxes which featured the illusion of rotating figurines of dancers or skaters apparently gliding about on their own power upon the mirrored top of the music box. These means of non-direct communication between communication device(s) 6 and actuator(s) 18, which lack a fixed pathway (such as slot 50), could allow for the creation of at least one pathway on the display device 10 which could be changed during the operation of the invention.

In at least one embodiment, one or more of the displays 14 could also be given movement by the actuator 18, such as a solenoid-based actuator 180, which is shown in FIG. 2. The solenoid-based actuator 180 could be located behind the display face 12 and is connected to a portion of display 22, which moves relative to the solenoid-based actuator 180 through an aperture in the display face 12. The movement imparted by the solenoid-based actuator 180 to the attached display 14 could include, but not be limited to: moving the display 22 closer to, away from, through the gaming display face 12 (not shown) or any combination thereof. The movement of solenoid-based actuator 180 would be controlled by controller 140 or any other control system known to the art or yet to be developed in the art.

In another embodiment, as an example and with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a controller 140, in generally determining that game-terminating event has occurred, could cause (for example, via a threaded shaft actuator 110, flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120 or other actuators 18) a movable indicator 40 (for example, shaped-like a helicopter) during its travels along the pathway (for example, the slot 50) to finally come to rest at the stop position 16, which is associated with a display 14 (such as a player game-terminating notification display 34 having a form of a blimp). At that time, the controller 140 could also activate a solenoid-based actuator 180 to move the blimp-shaped display 34 from a position of close proximity to the front surface of the display face 12, to a position that is more outward and distant. Alternatively, the above action could be the display 14 repeatedly moving back and forth from the front surface of the display face 12. The visual effect of these actions could substantially communicate the impression that a game-terminating notification display 34 (the blimp) has interfered with the upward motion of movable indicator 40 (the helicopter), therefore denoting aircraft collision and signaling the termination of a game, bonus game, betting or wagering or other such event. When the invention generally causes the movable indicator 40 to move onto another stop position 16, the display 34 could be reset to the display's original “inactive” position proximate to the front surface of the display face 12.

Similarly, in another embodiment, at least one actuator (for example, a solenoid-based actuator 180) can also be used for generally providing movement of at least one award notification display 20 to substantially communicate various information (such as, that a prize(s) is to be awarded a player). As generally outlined above, the controller 140, in determining that a player is entitled to a prize, could cause the moving indicator 40 to stop at a stop position 16 that is adjacent to an award notification display 20. At that time, the actuator 18 (not shown) in communication with the award notification display 20 could cause the movement of the award notification display 20 (for example, moving the display away from the top surface of the display face 12, moving back and forth relative to the top surface of the display face 12, vibrating the display and similar actions, or various combinations thereof) to communicate information (such as the awarding of a prize won by a player) and generally enhance the excitement of the prize-winning atmosphere.

As denoted generally above, the invention has at least one controller 140, which is used to control various aspects of the activities of the actuators 18. The controller 140 may act in conjunction with a plurality of sensors (not shown in FIG. 2) to allow the controller 140 (or any other control or governance system(s), also not shown, known to the art or will be known to the art in the future) to detect the primary movement position of movable indicator 40. Further, in another embodiment of the invention, the controller 140 may receive input from a random number generator 150 (or pseudo-random number generator) for use in the determining of an event that requires communication through the movement of a communication device 6, the creation of award amounts in conjunction with a payout table and similar actions.

Once controller 140 determines that at least one communication (for example, to at least one player) is required, the controller 140 causes the appropriate display (such as coordinated movement of one or more communication devices 6) to occur.

FIG. 4 is substantially a cutaway side-view of another embodiment of the invention with a display device generally indicated by reference numeral 300. This embodiment is substantially similar to that depicted in FIG. 1 with at least one difference being that the display device 300 has an angled display face 310 that is generally positioned at a display face angle 320 (θ) other than generally vertical. The display face angle 320 can be compared with either a vertical angle of a wall for a wall mounted embodiment of the invention or the horizontal angle of ground for ground mounted embodiments of the inventions. The slanted or angled orientation of display face 310 may allow the creation of a display device 300 which will be unique and provide enhanced enjoyment to players. The non-limiting example that is depicted in FIG. 4 will operate in a manner virtually identical to that of FIGS. 1 and 2, but the movement and placement of the communication devices 6 and actuators 420 will occur at a different angle.

The display device 300 in this embodiment could have movable indicator 344, generally depicted as a downhill bicyclist, moving along the length of at least one linearly shaped pathway (such as slot 314). The pathway could have a generally vertical orientation with respect to the display face 310 upon which it is located. As discussed above for other embodiments, a plurality of stop positions 16 could be associated with respective displays 14 to form sets of stop positions 16 and displays 14, which are located substantially proximate to the pathway. The displays 14 could also be comprised of award notification displays 420 and game-terminating notification displays 330. In at least one possible version, the award notification displays 420 could have dollar sign indicia while the game-terminating notification display 330 could have a three-dimensional form representing a tree.

To generally effect communication of information (for example, such as an awarding of a prize), the movable indicator 344 appears in FIG. 4 to be located in proximate relationship at a stop position 16 (not shown) associated with an award notification display (not shown). Alternatively, the gaming display 300 may communicate the end of play by locating a moving movable indicator 344 at a stop position 16 that is in close proximity to the game-terminating notification display 330. This action would communicate the impression of having the bicyclist form coming into contact with the tree form. As discussed earlier, many other shapes, objects, actions and combination thereof, may be used for communication information (via award notification and game termination displays 420 and 330, respectively, and the movable indicator(s) 344 and 40, respectively). As discussed in relation to FIG. 2, the displays 420 and 330 in this embodiment could be further provided with actuator generated movement (for example, solenoid-based actuator 180 [not shown in FIG. 4]).

As shown generally in FIG. 4, a movable indicator 344 may be propelled (for example, moved up and down the slot 314) by an actuator 18 (for example, threaded shaft actuator 110, flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120 and similar devices). A plurality of sensors 462 may also be provided to allow controller 440, or any other control mechanism (not shown), to detect the position of at least movable indicator 344 and to generally control the actions of at least one actuator 18 for the movable indicator 344, accordingly.

Although the display face angle 320 (in at least one embodiment is forty-five degree angle) and design (for example, linear) of the pathway (such as slot 314) substantially confines the movement of the movable indicator 344 to linear movement at a forty-five degree angle, other movements (direction, angle and orientation, for example) for the movable indicator 344 are possible based on the apparatuses and methodologies disclosed within.

The method by which prizes are awarded, games are terminated, or other game-related events are caused to occur in relation to this embodiment could utilize those apparatuses, means and methodologies that have previously been discussed with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4A is substantially a side cutaway view of an alternative embodiment of a display device, generally denoted by reference numeral 800, which could comprise at least one display face 815, an actuator 18, particularly a rack and pinion actuator, generally denoted by reference numeral 810, and at least one movable indicator 880 (which is shaped like a skier), wherein the rack and pinion actuator 810 generally propels the movable indicator 880 along at least a portion of at least one pathway (such as slot 816) which is located to the display face 815.

The rack and pinion actuator 810 may be comprised of a propulsion device 820 (for example, a motor), pinion gear 814 and a rack 812. Activating the rack and pinion actuator 810 substantially causes the propulsion device 820, which is connected to the pinion gear 814, to generally rotate or otherwise turn the pinion gear 814. The teeth of the pinion gear 814 then substantially movably engage the respective teeth of the rack 812, which is generally attached to, associated or otherwise in communication with, the movable indicator 880. When the pinion gear 814 rotates, it generally causes the rack 812, to which the movable indicator 880 is substantially attached, to respectively move away from or towards the pinion gear 814 to thereby propel the movable indicator 880 along at least a portion of at least one pathway (such as slot 816) with which the movable indicator 880 is generally associated.

As disclosed above with other embodiments of the threaded shaft actuator 110, at least one embodiment of the rack and pinion actuator 810 can have one of its components (such as the rack 812) be made from either flexible or non-flexible material. A non-flexible version of the rack 812 may limit a rack and pinion actuator 810 as to the type of movement that it can provide for the communication device 6. A flexible version of rack 812 can be inserted in an open channel (not shown) located below the gaming display face 12, wherein the open channel can be positioned as a pathway (such as slot 816) having a wide variety of geometric shapes. Additionally, the flexible version of the rack 812 can be attached at both ends to provide a closed loop. In this manner, the rack and pinion actuator 810 can provide continuous travel for the associated movable indicator(s) along a looped pathway (not shown).

The movable indicator 880 can be associated with the rack 812 through any one of a multitude of the means known to those skilled in the art or which will readily become known in the future. This would include, but not be limited to the directed physical connection (such as bracket or nut means, for example) and indirect non-physical connection (magnetic means of connection) as discussed above.

As more fully discussed above, display(s) 14, stop position(s) 16, (neither shown in FIG. 4A) as well as controller(s) 840 and sensors 862 could be used in this embodiment for general communication of the positioning of communication devices 6 (such as movable indicator 880) as well as the general control of the rack and pinion actuator(s) 810 and other actuators 18 which may be used. Also, the display face 816, as discussed above could have a display face angle 830 (θ) which is at an angle other than generally vertical (for example, more or less than perpendicular to the ground reference where the invention is located).

Combined Actuators

FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 generally reference several embodiments of the invention wherein the display devices rely upon a plurality of actuators 18 combined together and acting in concert to generally provide a two-dimensional movement along an x and y axis for at least one movable indicator 544 along at least one pathway located on the display face 510 of a display device, generally denoted by reference numeral 500.

FIG. 5 substantially shows one embodiment of the invention wherein the display device 500 substantially has an angled display face 510 (the aspects of which have been discussed above) with at least one pathway (such as slot 560). Along the pattern of the pathway moves a movable indicator 544, which is configured to represent a downhill skier. The slot 560 in at least one embodiment is constructed to have a pattern that has non-linear components (for example, zigzag as shown in FIG. 5). Other possible pathway patterns suitable for use in display devices of the present invention, include, for example, curves, loops (such as a closed non-circular loop), spirals, non-planar surfaces, (such as hilly terrains with up-and-down, as well as, side-to-side aspects). In at least one embodiment, the pathway may further incorporate non-linear elements with linear elements.

As with the other various embodiments of the invention, a plurality of sets of stop positions 520/displays 522 are generally located on display face 510 relative to the pathway. Of the displays, three could be award notification displays 524 while one could be a game terminating notification display 526 (for example, a two or three dimensional form of a snowman).

As stated above for other embodiments of the invention, the communication of information (for example, the awarding of a prize to a player) could be communicated by having movable indicator 544 to appear to have stopped at a stop position 520 associated with an award notification display 525 (which appears to show the indicia of dollar signs). As stated above for the communication of information for game termination, the movable indicator 544 could be stopped at the stop position 520 adjacent to the game termination display 520 to indicate collision by the movable indicator figure and the game termination display FIG. 520. In at least one embodiment, the a game terminating display FIG. 520 (such as the snowman figure display 526) could be moved by an actuator 18 (not shown) when the movable indicator 544 generally comes to rest proximate to the snowman to visually suggest a collision which substantially indicates that a game terminating event has occurred. As noted above, many other shapes, objects, actions and combinations thereof may be utilized by the display device 500.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are substantially front cutaway views of gaming display 500 from FIG. 5 with gaming device face 510 removed to show possible embodiments of the internal operation for gaming display 500. The internal operation for the movement of the movable indicator 544 along a pathway, which may contain non-linear elements, may include a drive mechanism comprised of several actuators 18 combined together and acting in concert, as generally indicated by reference numeral 600 in FIG. 6 and as generally indicated by reference numeral 700 in FIG. 7. These combined actuators 18 could have either similar or different type of movement means. In at least one embodiment, one of these actuators 18 could impart to the connected movable indicator 544 a movement, which is different from the movements of the other combined actuators 18 of the drive mechanism 600.

One possible source for a drive mechanism 17, 600 or 700 may be the Kerk Screw Rail Actuator™ as provided by the Kerk Motion Products, Inc., 1 Kerk Drive, Hollis, N.H., USA 03049. The Kerk Screw Rail Actuator™ can comprise a motor rotated precision rolled lead screw, supported by sealed bearings and contained within a concentric guide rail, driving an integrated nut bushing.

The drive mechanism 600, in at least one embodiment, could be comprised of at least two actuators 18 combined together, a first actuator, generally denoted by reference number 630 and second actuator, generally denoted by reference number 640. As generally depicted, the first actuator 630 is a sliding actuator wherein the second actuator 640 is a flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120 as discussed above. In other versions, the first and second actuators, 630 and 640 respectively, could be joined with additional actuators 18 which provides a secondary movement to the movable indicator 544 (such as vibration and similar actions).

In this embodiment, the movable indicator 544 is affixed to the first actuator 630 which provides the movable indicator in at least one form of motion (for example, horizontal movement). The first actuator 630 in turn is movably connected itself to the second actuator 640 which provides the first actuator 630 and connected movable indicator 544 with at least a second form of movement (or at least a second form of direction). In this case, the second form of movement is vertical movement.

Although not shown, an additional actuator of a type known in the art or which will be known to the art in the future, could be combined with the drive mechanism 600 to change the orientation or otherwise turn the movable indicator 544 so the front of the movable indicator 544 can always be facing the direction that it is being propelled in by the drive mechanism 600.

The first actuator 630 could be comprised of a base 631, pair of posts 632, a pair of railings 633, a sliding platform 634, and pair of bumpers 635. The base 631 could have a threaded bore (not shown) passing from one side of the base 631 to another side. This threaded bore could movably receive the rotating threaded shaft 642 of the second actuator 640. As the threads of threaded shaft 642 rotate within the threads of the threaded bore, the first actuator 630 and its attached movable indicator 544 could be propelled along at least a portion of the threaded shaft 642.

The base 631 could have a pair of posts 632 located in a generally parallel configuration projecting outward from the top of the base 631. A railing 633 is attached to each of the non-base ends of the post pair 632. Each railing 633 is substantially attached to an end of a post 632 so as to generally orient railings 633 in parallel, planar relationship to one another. The railings 633 could be generally placed at a position far enough from the top of the base 631 so that the sliding platform 634 (to which at least one movable indicator 544 is attached) substantially clears the top of the base 631 and could run the full length of the rails 633 substantially unimpeded.

The sliding platform 634 could have in proximate vicinity to each of its two sides, a bore (not shown) or open channel (not shown) whose cross-section and diameter closely matches the cross-section and diameter of each of the railings 633 to generally allow each open channel or bore to freely receive a railing 633. In this manner, the sliding platform 634 is substantially movably connected to railing pair 633 and can move up and down the length of the railing pair 633.

A movement means (not shown) in the sliding platform 634 comes in movable contact with a portion of the rail pair 633 that is ensconced within the bore or open channels. Such a movement means could be comprised of powered wheel(s) connected to a motor or other propulsion apparatus. In this manner, the turning or rotating of the wheels could respectively draw the railings 633 into the bore or open channel of the sliding platform 634 substantially causing the sliding platform, and hence the attached movable FIG. 544, to move along the length of the railing pair 633.

Alternatively, the sliding platform 634 could be powered by a movement means (not shown) that is similar to those used in printers wherein an elastomeric band (not shown), attached to the sliding platform 634, is moved by mechanical means (pulleys and a motor).

Alternatively, the sliding platform could be freely movable along the railings without being attached to an elastomeric band, motor or similar means. In this manner, the slot 560 (for example, having a zigzag shape, see FIG. 5) could force the sliding platform (and the attached movable indicator 544) to move (for example, sideways) along the railings 633 as the second actuator 640 moves (for example, up and down) the first actuator 630.

An anti-rotation device may be required to substantially inhibit the rotation of the first actuator 630 or movable indicator 544 around the second actuator 640 (such as threaded shaft 642). Such an anti-rotation device could be the slot 560 (shown in FIG. 5). As discussed above, the slot 560 can limit the movement or direction of the movable indicator 544 or attached second primary actuator 640. In addition, or in substitution (that is, for those embodiments which lack slots 560 since they use magnetic attraction to associate movable indicators 544 with actuators 18 or drive mechanisms 600), a plurality of polymer-based bumpers 635 can be employed as anti-rotation devices. The polymer-based bumpers 635 can be placed at each end of the railings 633. The polymer-based bumpers 635 and the back surface of the display face 510 can be substantially constructed using methodologies and material known in the art or will be known in the art in the future so that the polymer-based bumpers 635 can ride along the back surface of the gaming display face 510 (with very little friction or interference) so as to prevent the unwanted rotation of the first actuator 630 and attached movable indicator 544 around the second actuator 640.

Another suitable anti-rotation device could be a sleeve (not shown) that is fitted to the threaded shaft 642. The sleeve could have a longitudinal slot-shaped opening (not shown) through which a portion of the movable indicator 40 could pass through to movably connect to the threaded shaft 642 of the second actuator 640. The interior of the sleeve should be of sufficient width and depth and other dimensions to substantially freely accommodate that portion of the sliding platform 634 that is in contact with the threaded shaft 642. At the same time, these dimensions could substantially prevent the unwanted rotation of the sliding platform 634 (and hence the first actuator 630) when the threaded shaft 642 rotates, as well as to allow the substantially free and unbinding rotation of the threaded shaft 642 during operation. Other methods of preventing unwanted rotation known to the art or which will become known to the art may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The second actuator 640 in this embodiment could be similar in construction to earlier described embodiments of the flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120. The second actuator 640 may be held in place relative to the back of the gaming display face 510 by a pair of bushings or bearings 650. Each bushing or bearing 650 could be located at proximate end of the threaded shaft 642. Each bushing or bearing 650 may be attached to the back side of the gaming display face 12 so as to substantially locate and hold the threaded shaft 642 in proper orientation for efficient operations of the gaming display 500.

In one possible version of the second actuator 640, power could be supplied to the flexible threaded shaft-based actuator 120 for the rotation of the threaded shaft 642 by substantially directly connecting a propulsion unit 649 (for example, a motor) to one end of the threaded shaft 642. In at least one version, an indirect means of propulsion could be provided by having at least one primary pulley 616 substantially attached to at least one end of threaded shaft 642. The primary pulley could be linked to at least one second pulley 647 by at least one flexible member 648 (such as a belt, chain or similar device, for example). The second pulley 647 could be generally attached to a remotely located motor 649 (propulsion unit) which is then used to rotate the threaded shaft 642 through the above described linkage. A controller 670, connected to at least the first and second actuators 630 and 640, respectively, could substantially govern the actions of at least one or more of these actuators.

It should be noted that while FIG. 6 generally depicts one possible orientation and setup for a drive mechanism 600, other embodiments (not shown) may have the first and second actuators, 630 and 640, respectively, in different orientation and angles than shown and that may provide further mechanisms that further provide for the changing or adjusting of said angles and orientations during the operations of the invention. This variance in physical relationship between the first and second actuators, 630 and 640, respectively (FIG. 6), could be implemented by an additional actuator 18 (not shown) that could be used to effect a change in the relationship between the first and second actuators (730 and 740, respectively, in FIG. 7) based on various physical factors such as relative angle, distance, movement, speed of movement and/or other physical parameters of the drive mechanisms 600 or 700.

If a slot 560 is used (such as when there is generally a direct mechanical connection between movable indicator 544 and the drive mechanism 600) in conjunction with the drive mechanism 600, then the slot 560 may be configured in a wide variety of designs to generally take advantage of the free-flowing multiple direction travel provided by the drive mechanism 600. To further facilitate the movable indicator 544 movement along the slot 560 (see FIG. 5) and to avoid damage to gaming display face 510 (and possibly other components of the invention), the edges of the slot 560 may be lined with various coatings such as with rubber, plastic or other low friction or elastic materials.

As discussed above with other embodiments of the invention, a plurality of sensors 662 may be provided to substantially help the controller 670, or any other control methodology or mechanism (not shown), to detect the position of the movable indicator 544 along the pathway.

FIG. 7 is substantially a front cutaway view of gaming device 500 from FIG. 5 with display face 510 removed to reveal another possible embodiment for a drive mechanism, as denoted by reference numeral 700. This drive mechanism 700 could be comprised of a plurality of combined actuators 18 acting in concert to provide movement for at least one movable indicator 544. The movement in this embodiment has the potential to provide complete two dimensional movement for the movable indicator 544 along x and y axes.

As generally shown in FIG. 7, one possible embodiment for the drive mechanism 700 could be comprised of a first actuator 730 (to which is attached the movable indicator 544), which is movably attached to a second actuator 740. As stated earlier for the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, both first and second actuators 730 and 740 can be same or different types of actuators 18. Supplemental actuator(s) (not shown) may also be utilized, as described above, to provide supplemental movement to the movable indictor 544 (such as vibration, popup movement and similar actions).

As generally depicted in FIG. 7, the first and second actuators (730 and 740, respectively) are substantially threaded shaft actuators as discussed above. The first actuator 730 could be comprised of a base 731, a pair of support rods 732, a first threaded shaft 733, a propulsion device (such as a motor) 734, an anti-rotation device 735, and a sliding platform 736. As described in detail above, the base 731 has a threaded bore (not shown) which can movably receive the threads of a second threaded shaft 742 of the second actuator 740. The rotation of the second threaded shaft 742 causes the base 731 of the first actuator 730 (along with its attached movable indicator 544) to move along at least a portion of the length of the second threaded shaft 742 of the second actuator 740.

Projecting outward from the top of the base 731 is a set of support rods 732 held in a generally parallel and planer relationship to one another. One support rod 732 holds the anti-rotation device 735 while the other support rod holds the first threaded shaft 742 and the propulsion device (which could be directly connected to one end of the first threaded shaft 742).

The support rod 732 holding the anti-rotation device 735 could have each end of the support rod connect to an end of the anti-rotation device 735. In the present embodiment, the anti rotation means 735 could be a bar, a portion of which is in substantially movable contact with the underside of the display face 510. As noted above, other anti-rotation devices may be substituted for or used in conjunction with the present anti-rotation device 735.

The second support rod 732 could be attached to the first threaded shaft 733 and propulsion device 734 by affixing one end of the supporting rod 732 to the propulsion device 734 and movably affixing the other end of the supporting rod 732 to the non-propulsion device end of the first threaded shaft 733.

The pair of support rods 732 substantially lifts and supports the anti-rotation device 735, the primary threaded shaft 733, and the primary motor 734 (propulsion device) generally away from the top of the base. This generally allows the sliding platform 736 (to which the movable indicator 544 is mounted) to substantially ride freely along at least a portion of the lengths of the first threaded shaft 733, and anti-rotation device 735 without substantial interference from the base 731.

The sliding platform 736, in order to allow it to slide, could have two bores (not shown) or two open channels (not shown) one of which is at least partially threaded to movably receive the threads of the primary threaded shaft 733. The other bore or open channel, which is not threaded, reversibly receives the anti-rotation device 735. As the primary threaded shaft 733 rotates, it causes the sliding platform 736 to move along at least a portion of the length of the first threaded shaft 733 and the anti-rotation device 735.

As noted above, the second actuator 740 moves the first actuator 730 along with its attached movable indicator 544. The second actuator 740 has substantially the same format as shown in the embodiment of actuator 640 in FIG. 6. This includes, but is not necessary limited to, the powering of the threaded shaft 742 by a propulsion device 770 (for example, a remotely located motor). The propulsion device 770 is connected by a first pulley 746, flexible connection means 748 (for example, a belt) and a second pulley 747.

At least one controller 714, in association with a series of sensors 762 for the detection of the movable indicator's 544 position, may generally control the operation of the first and second actuators 730, 740, respectively, of the drive mechanism 700 during the operation of the invention.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate further embodiments of display devices of the present invention involving use of an irregular pathway for the movable indicator and the use of a slidable bracket assembly to enable movement of the movable indicator along such a pathway. FIG. 8A shows the irregular pathway 856 in the form of a closed non-circular loop having various in-and-out curves. Pathway 856 is provided as a slot in display face 852 of display device 850; display face 852 may be made of glass or other similar materials. As shown in the previous figures, award notification displays 854 may be used to indicate a winning wager, for example, dollar sign indicia. The movable indicator 860 is propelled along pathway/slot 856 by a movement apparatus made up of slidable bracket assembly 870 attached to motor 858 through driveshaft 859. Support rod 859A supports the center portion of display face 852. Slidable bracket assembly 870 is comprised of slidable bracket 871 which is slidably coupled to tube sleeve 872 which acts as a housing for spring mechanism 873 (FIG. 8B). Spring mechanism 873 allows the length of slidable bracket assembly 870 to be adjusted as needed as motor 858 moves movable indicator 860 along pathway/slot 856. As shown in the previous figures, sensors 890 may be provided to allow a controller, or any other control mechanism (not shown), to detect the position of movable indicator 860 and to control the actions of the movement apparatus, accordingly.

FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C exemplify additional embodiments of display devices of the present invention involving use of a slidable bracket assembly to enable movement of the movable indicator across a non-planar surface. FIG. 9A shows the non-planar surface as part of display face 1010 in the form of linear pathway 1050 which includes a plurality of bumps (elevations) 1030. Pathway 1050 is provided as a slot in display face 1010 of display device 1000. As shown in the previous figures, award notification displays 1020 may be used to indicate a winning wager, for example, dollar sign indicia. The movable indicator 1040 is propelled along pathway/slot 1050 by a movement apparatus made up of slidable bracket assembly 1065 (FIG. 9B) which is attached to motor 1080 through threaded shaft 1070 and nut 1075. Slidable bracket assembly 1065 is comprised of slidable bracket 1066 which is slidably coupled to tube sleeve 1067 and spring mechanism 1068 (FIG. 9C). Spring mechanism 1068 allows movable indicator 1040 to ride over non-planar surface 1060 (FIG. 9B) of display face 1010 by adjusting the length of slidable bracket 1066 as needed to adjust for bumps 1030. As shown in the previous figures, sensors 1035 (FIG. 9B) may be provided to allow a controller, or any other control mechanism (not shown), to detect the position of movable indicator 1040 and to control the actions of the movement apparatus accordingly.

FIGS. 10A and 10B depict further embodiments of display devices of the present invention involving use of a slidable bracket assembly to enable movement of the movable indicator along a non-linear pathway. FIG. 10A shows non-linear pathway 1250 as part of display face 1210 where non-linear pathway 1250 includes a plurality of side-to-side twists and turns. Pathway 1250 is provided as a slot in display face 1210 of display device 1200. As shown in the previous figures, award notification displays 1220 may be used to indicate a winning wager, for example, dollar sign indicia. The movable indicator 1240 is propelled along pathway/slot 1250 by a movement apparatus made up of a slidable bracket assembly (similar to that shown in FIG. 9C) which is attached to motor 1280 through threaded shaft 1270 and nut 1275. The slidable bracket assembly is typically comprised of a slidable bracket 1265 (shown with right-angle bend into plane of the paper, FIG. 10B) that is slidably coupled to tube sleeve/spring mechanism 1265A (partially hidden between right-angle turn of slidable bracket 1265 and nut 1275). Movable indicator 1240 traverses pathway/slot 1250 in a side-to-side (non-linear) fashion dictated by the configuration of pathway/slot 1250. As shown in the previous figures, sensors (not shown in FIGS. 10A/B) may be provided to allow a controller, or any other control mechanism (not shown), to detect the position of movable indicator 1240 and to control the actions of the movement apparatus accordingly.

Although the display devices of FIGS. 8A, 9A and 10A are shown with slant-angled display faces, it is understood that the display faces may be oriented at other angles relative to the horizontal, such as, for example, 90° or vertical-faced. The pathways/slots for the movable indicators shown in FIGS. 8A, 9A and 10A are shown as a non-circular planar loop (continuous), a linear non-planar track (non-continuous) and a non-linear planar track (non-continuous), respectively. It is understood that other embodiments of the present invention may include various combinations of the pathway orientations shown in FIGS. 8A, 9A and 10A, for example, a pathway that includes both bumps (such as 1030 of FIG. 9A) and twists-turns (such as 1250 of FIG. 10A), or a pathway that includes the aforementioned bumps and twists-turns in the form of a non-circular loop (such as 856 of FIG. 8A).

One Methodology of Operation

One embodiment of the invention's operation is generally depicted in the flow chart of FIG. 11. This operational embodiment has an initiating step 900, a reset step 910 and then two primary function loops, Indicating Function loop 912 which can lead into the Gaming Function loop 930.

The Indicating Function loop 912 has three sub functions: Activate Display 916, Activate Moving Indicator Primary Movement 918, and Activate Moving Indicator Supplemental Movement 920. These three subfunctions lead into Placement of Wager step 922. The Gaming Function Loop 930 similarly, has three subfunctions: Activate Display 932, Activate Movable Indicator Primary Movement 934, and Activate Movable Indicator Secondary Movement 936. Each of subfunctions leads into Win Step 938 which leads back to the Placement of Wager Step 922. The Win Step 938 can also lead to the Payout Step 940.

The first step of the operation is the Initiate Step 900 wherein the gaming device 4 (shown in FIG. 1), the display device 10 or both, may be energized. During Initiate Step 900, the various electrical devices generally associated with the display device 10 could be energized, including, but not limited to, at least one sensor (not shown in FIG. 2) substantially used to detect the location of at least one movable indicator 40 and at least one controller 140 generally associated with the invention. Any software substantially associated with the controller 140 could also be initialized. Any other peripheral electrical devices generally associated with display device 10 that should be activated upon invention startup could also be energized. Upon completion of the initiate step 900, the process could move to the second step or the Reset Step 910.

The Reset Step 910 could substantially initiate the resetting of the various elements and operating parameters of the display device 10, including but not limited to communication device(s) 6 (for example, at least one movable indicator 40 and/or at least one display 14) to a predetermined position(s), preset parameter(s) and/or predetermined status(es).

To accomplish the resetting of the movable indicator 40, the controller 140 in at least one embodiment could activate at least one actuator 18 or drive mechanism 600 (in communication with the movable indicator 40) to propel the movable indicator 40 to at least one reset stop position 16 on the gaming display 12. Once the movable indicator 40 had reached the reset stop position, sensor(s) assigned to the position would notify the controller 140 to stop the action of the actuator 18 or drive mechanism 600. In at least one embodiment, the resetting of at least one movable indicator could be accomplished by the activation of an actuator 18 or drive mechanism 600 to place the movable indicator 40 in generally continuous motion.

Similarly, any associated displays 14 in communication with an actuator 18 (for example, solenoid-based actuator 180) could also be reset to their designated reset position in resetting function step 910. Upon completion of the Reset Function 910, the operation would go on to the Indicating Function loop 912.

The indicating function loop 912 could have three subfunctions 916, 918, 920 and a Placement of Wager decision 922. The three subfunctions could be: Activate Display subfunction 916; Activate Movable Indicator Primary Movement subfunction 918; and Activate Movable Indicator Secondary Movement subfunction 920. One or more of the above-named subfunctions could be used simultaneously or sequentially during the game play to provide stimuli to substantially excite participants or others; to generally inform the participants or others on how the indication of winning is accomplished; to substantially provide other communication that is not directly concerned with the actual playing by the participants.

In the Indicating Function Loop 912, the controller 140, in at least one embodiment of the invention, could, without input from a suitable device such as a random number generator or other control systems, generally cause the display device 10 to emit non-wagering stimuli, information or other communication through the simultaneous or sequential activation of one or more above-named subfunctions 916, 918 and 920. At the completion of the activation of one or more of the above subfunctions, the operation could move onto Placement of Wager step 922 where the wager(s) information of the player is accepted.

In the Activate Movable Indicator Primary Movement Subfunction 918, the controller 140 could, without gaming data input from another device or controller subdevice, generally activate or change the operating state of at least one actuator 18 or drive mechanism 600 or any combination thereof resulting in the change of operation, status, activity, pattern of one communication device 6 (for example, a movable indicator 40 regarding its movement along at least a portion of the pathway; a display 22 to popup from the surface of the display face 12). The change could be random or pre-determined depending on the operation requirements of the particular embodiment of the invention. In at least one embodiment, the positioning of the movable indicator 40 would be fed back to the controller 140 or other controlling means by the activation of sensors due to the proximate presence of the movable indicator 40.

Upon activation of the Activate Movable Indicator Secondary Movement Subfunction 920, the controller 140 could affect the operation of additional actuators 18 (not shown) generally associated with a communication device 6 (for example, a movable indicator 40) to generally produce supplemental stimulus (such as vibration, popup movement and similar actions). In at least one embodiment, wherein at least one movable indicator 40 is in motion along it respective pathway, one or more additional actuators 18 could be activated by the controller 140 or other controlling means to cause a figure portion of the movable indicator 40 to popup away from the display surface 12 and then vibrate. After a period of time, the controller 140 or other controlling means would deactivate the vibrating additional actuator(s) 18 (not shown) to stop this secondary activity of the movable indicator 40. Alternatively, the controller 140 or other controlling means could cause the activation of another supplemental or secondary actuator 18 to recede the figurine portion of the movable indicator 40 back to its original position.

Alternatively, or in addition to the above embodiments, a secondary actuator 18 (not shown) could also generally control the orientation of the figure portion of the movable indicator 40 during its travel along the pathway. In this manner, when an actuator 18 or drive mechanism 600 has moved the movable indicator 40 to a certain destination (such as stop position 16) and causes the movable indicator 40 to move in an opposite direction, the additional actuator 18 could orient the designated front of the movable indicator 40 to the new direction of travel that the drive mechanism 600 or actuator 18 will impose upon the movable indicator 40.

Activation of the Activate Display subfunction 916 could cause selected one or more displays 14 enabled with actuators 18 to move or produce other controller-governed stimuli. For example, energized actuators 18 (such as solenoid-based actuators 180) could cause the selected display 14 to vibrate (such as the three dimensional blimp of gaming display 34) and then could project from the display surface 12.

Upon the completion of duties by any of the above subfunctions activated by the Indicating Function Loop 912, the operation could proceed to the Placement of Wager step 922. At this step, wager information for the player(s) is accepted and/or is transmitted to the gaming device 10. If no wager or other is placed/other suitable or desired activity commenced with the gaming device(s) 10 within a certain time or other parameters set by the operator of the invention, then operation proceeds back to the Indicating Function Loop 912. If the input of wager information or other suitable activity associated with the gaming device(s) occurs, then the operation cuts short any initiated activities of subfunctions 916, 918 and 920 before passing onto the Gaming Function Loop 930.

At the Gaming Function Loop 930, the game undertakes those steps (not shown, but known to the art) to generally process any wager information from the Placement of Wager step 922 to determine win, lose or draw for the received wager(s). Upon completion of wager information processing, the Gaming Function Loop 930 could then generally communicate to the player or others the processed wager information.

To effectively carry out this communication, the Gaming Function loop 930 could utilize one or more of the following components: subfunctions 932, 934 and 936; Win step 938; and Payout step 940. The Gaming Function loop's 930 three subfunctions (for example, Activate Display 932, Activate Movable Indicator Primary Movement 932, and Activate Movable Indicator Secondary Movement 936) provide substantially the same communication activities as their three counterpart subfunctions 916, 918 and 920 accomplish for the Indicating Function Loop 912. Additionally, the Gaming Function loop's 930 three subfunctions 932, 934 and 936 could provide the player and others with wager-related information through initiating the activity of at least one communication device 6. Once any activated subfunctions 932, 934, 936 have substantially completed their duties (such as activating or otherwise altering the status or activities of at least one communication device 6 to indicate the winning of a prize, size of the price, loss of wager, and/or gaming information/communication/stimulation, for example) the operation can then proceed to the Win step 938.

The Win step 938 could be a decision: if a gaming device 10 has previously determined or received data that the player(s) has won a prize(s), the operation could move onto the Payout Step 940 for transmitting or otherwise communicating to the winning participant(s) or player(s), the prize(s) or data about the prize(s). If the payer does not receive a prize at this step, the process can loop back to the Placement of Wager step 922. If the process proceeds to Payout Step 940 where the payout is made or credited towards the player, then the operation can process back to the Placement of Wager step 922.

Although the description above contains many specifications, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the embodiments of this invention. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by the examples given. 

1. A gaming device comprising: (a) at least one gaming apparatus configured to allow at least one player to place a wager and play at least one game; and (b) and at least one display device in communication with the gaming apparatus, wherein the display device comprises: (i) at least one display face; (ii) at least one movable indicator; and (iii) at least one movement apparatus comprising at least one actuator system comprising a slidable bracket assembly, wherein the movement apparatus is configured to provide the movable indicator with multi-dimensional movement in relation to the display face.
 2. The gaming device of claim 1 wherein the actuator system further comprises: (a) the slidable bracket assembly comprising: (i) a tube sleeve; (ii) a bracket slidably coupled at a first end to the tube sleeve and further coupled at a second end to the movable indicator; and (iii) a spring mechanism mounted within the tube sleeve and configured to provide slidable movement to the bracket; and (b) at least one propulsion device coupled to the slidable bracket assembly.
 3. The gaming device of claim 2 wherein the propulsion device is selected from the group consisting of a motor, a pulley, a rack and pinion and a moving belt.
 4. The gaming device of claim 1 further comprising at least one control system which governs at least part of operation of the movement apparatus.
 5. The gaming device of claim 1 wherein the display device further comprises a pathway along which the movable indicator is propelled, the pathway being located proximate to the display face and comprising a slot opening in the display face.
 6. The gaming device of claim 5 wherein the pathway comprises a shape selected from one or more of the group consisting of a zigzag, a curve, a spiral, a loop and a non-planar surface.
 7. The gaming device of claim 1 wherein the movement apparatus comprises a plurality of actuator systems acting in concert and configured to provide movement to at least one movable indicator.
 8. A display device in communication with a gaming apparatus, wherein the display device comprises: (a) at least one display face; (b) at least one movable indicator positioned proximate to the display face; (c) a display associated with the display face; and (d) at least one movement apparatus comprising at least one actuator system, wherein: (i) the movement apparatus is configured to provide the movable indicator with multi-dimensional movement in relation to the display face; (ii) the actuator system comprises a slidable bracket assembly coupled to a propulsion device; and (iii) the slidable bracket assembly is further coupled to the movable indicator.
 9. The display device of claim 8 wherein (a) the slidable bracket assembly comprises a tube sleeve with a spring mechanism mounted therein, and a bracket slidably coupled to the tube sleeve, the bracket further coupled to the movable indicator, and (b) the slidable bracket assembly is coupled to the propulsion device via a threaded shaft.
 10. The display device of claim 8 wherein the propulsion device is selected from the group consisting of a motor, a pulley, a rack and pinion and a moving belt.
 11. The display device of claim 8 further comprising at least one control system which governs at least part of operation of the movement apparatus.
 12. The display device of claim 8 further comprising a pathway along which the movable indicator is propelled, the pathway being located proximate to the display face and comprising a slot opening in the display face.
 13. The display device of claim 12 wherein the pathway comprises a shape selected from one or more of the group consisting of a zigzag, a curve, a spiral, a loop and a non-planar surface.
 14. The display device of claim 8 wherein the display associated with the display face comprises indicia to communicate a winning outcome as a result of a player playing a game on the gaming apparatus.
 15. The display device of claim 8 wherein the movable indicator comprises a variable display design further comprising a light-emitting-diode meter.
 16. A gaming device actuator system comprising: (a) a bracket slidably coupled at a first end to a tube sleeve, the bracket further coupled at a second end to a movable indicator, and the tube sleeve further coupled to a shaft; (b) a spring mechanism mounted within the tube sleeve, the spring mechanism configured to provide slidable movement to the bracket; and (c) at least one propulsion device configured to provide rotational motion, the propulsion device coupled to the shaft, the shaft being configured to transfer rotational motion.
 17. The actuator system of claim 16 further comprising a controller configured to detect a position of the movable indicator and to control at least a portion of operation of the propulsion device.
 18. The actuator system of claim 16 wherein the propulsion device is selected from the group consisting of a motor, a pulley, a rack and pinion and a moving belt. 